At The Top

A PodWheels Column

In the ’80s, more like during the middle of that decade, popular movies followed a pretty cute storytelling formula: Setup, conflict, crisis, resolution.

Let’s focus on the resolution part, which, back 40 years ago, meant a happy ending to the movie. For instance: The boy got the girl. The good guys saved the day. The town was rescued from trouble du jour. And the closing credits featured a Kenny Loggins-esque feel-good anthem.

Why are we wasting your time reminiscing about this I-Heart-the-80s moment? Because in the spirit of feel-good movies, we are very thrilled to announce that this year’s Road to NTDC has officially begun.

The commencing of the journey of a thousand miles started with one step in the Grand Canyon State with their TDC (that’s an acronym for truck driving champions).

Yes indeed, ladies and gents; Arizona hosted its annual TDC. Winners are listed on our site. (See the full list of Arizona’s results by clicking HERE.) And, to continue to bog you, the reader, with a barrage of metaphors, we’re off to the races (a popular cliche).

We have our first state grand champion in Arizona’s Nathan Voss (UPS) in the 5-axle.

As far as storylines go: Out there in the NTDC wilderness we have a reigning grand champion (David Comings) vying for a repeat. There’s other grand champions lurking about (Jackie Reed, Jeff Langenhahn, Roland Bolduc).

So, will this Road to NTDC chapter replicate a mid-’80s movie plot: Uhm, maybe. Or, are we in for a Shakespearean tragedy: Again, uhm, maybe. Only the gods will reveal truths to us when the time is right.

For now, buckle up, keep those hands on the 10 & 2 and keep it safe out there.

(This will be the perfect time for you to cue up a song by Kenny Loggins. Might we recommend “Double or Nothing” from 1985’s “Rocky IV.”)

That’s all for this week. Hit us up with updates and/or to say ‘hi” at [email protected].  And remember, “I’ll see you at the top.”